You are here:

Milk Sugar Tolerance

Topic Overview

At first, newborns who are given formula may not be able to digest
all of the milk sugar (lactose) in the formula they drink. The undigested
lactose moves to the large intestine and causes cramps, bloating, or gas. As
the baby grows, he or she is better able to digest the lactose, and the
symptoms disappear.

Babies who are only fed breast milk do not have milk sugar
intolerance, because breast milk contains
lactase, an enzyme that helps digest lactose.

Milk sugar intolerance is similar to
lactose intolerance in older children and adults. But it is temporary and does not mean that the baby will be lactose-intolerant as
an adult.

Dietary supplements or lactase products for lactose intolerance
(such as Lactaid) should not be given to babies.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use.
How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.